Wasps have turned to Scotland fullback Hugo Southwell as their skipper for the 2012-13 Aviva Premiership season.

Southwell joined the club from Stade Francais at the end of the 2010-11 season and made 17 Premiership appearances for the Adams Park side last term. In what was a difficult season for Wasps, Southwell's performances were a shining light and he took the Players' Player of the Season award at the end of the campaign.

"It couldn't be a bigger honour to be named captain and I'm hugely looking forward to it," Southwell said. "I was thrilled to be given the award at the end of the season by the players and now being named as captain I hope I can continue to show my commitment to the players and to the club.

"When I did captain the side on occasions last year it was always a real pleasure because we've got a great bunch of talented guys here and lots of leaders in the squad. I feel there is a different dynamic at the club this year with the players we have brought in. We've added some real quality so it's going to be a privilege to lead them out."

Marco Wentzel, who joined the club at the same time as Southwell, will take on the vice-captaincy. Wasps boss Dai Young paid tribute to the pair saying: "Both Hugo and Marco were a massive help in a very difficult season last year and they are both very strong leaders.

"While Hugo is captain, I see Marco as playing a big supporting role throughout the season."